Unfair! This cry is heard across our land. From our parks and playgrounds to the Capitol, we are a nation of fair minded people. Fairness and equality go hand in hand. As a mother, it astounded me just how quickly my young children with their chubby little fingers seemed to grab hold of the concept of fairness. Everything from Legos to Eggos gets distributed evenly, and all is well. Unless, someone needs more. I have a daughter who has used significantly more of our budgeted medical expense money. My husband’s toiletries are a pittance compared to mine. Our child who commutes has a considerably better car than the one who doesn’t. Is it fair? No, it is not. It is just. There is a difference between justice and fairness. Fairness is calculable and obvious. Justice is not. Justice requires wisdom and trust.

The nation of Israel demanded a king. In all fairness, Samuel’s sons were not trustworthy nor were they wise. It would seem sensible that the people would want change, but why a king? Because they did not want justice, they wanted fairness. They wanted to be a people who did not have to honor God. They wanted to be entitled to their fair share. They knew they already had justice. They had the leadership they deserved and refused to seek mercy, so they desired fairness. Mercy is sought with humility and repentance. Fairness is demanded. They mistakenly believed their wellbeing was being placed in the hands of Samuel’s foolish sons rather than realizing they were subject to a just God.

Just as in the time of the judges, God’s people need to acknowledge that it is God who directs our path. A just God has brought many pivotal issues to the forefront today, and it is mercy we are to seek for ourselves, our loved ones, and our nation rather than trying to reason what seems fair. “There is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” (Proverbs 14:12)

Pray:

Adoration: God is holy, mighty, gracious, and merciful. Spend time declaring your love for Him and expressing your thoughts of praise and worship.

Confession: Ask God to search your heart and reveal any areas of unconfessed sin. Acknowledge these to the Lord and thank Him for His forgiveness.

Thanksgiving: Express your thankfulness to God for the blessings He has given you. When we consider that we deserve punishment because of our sinfulness, and instead God gives to us His love and mercy, our only response should be one of thankfulness.

Supplication: Petition God regarding your family and your ministry. Ask for help and guidance in sharing your Jesus with others and helping others grow in Him. Offer prayers concerning your activities for this day and any special concerns you may have. Intercede on behalf of local, national, and world missions. Pray the Great Commission would be fulfilled and for any special concerns you may have for missions.